Session Profile: Urmas Reinsalu
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session.
2024-05-08
Political Position
The political position is strongly results-oriented, focusing on the crisis in the government's fiscal policy and non-compliance with the Maastricht criteria. Also at the forefront is strong opposition to the violation of the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure Act, which is evident in the arbitrary bundling of proposed amendments. It vigorously supports the swift implementation of the law concerning the utilization of Russian oligarchs' assets, viewing this as an opportunity to establish an international precedent.
12 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates in-depth knowledge of the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure Act and procedural nuances, raising complex legal questions concerning the bundling of amendments. They possess a detailed understanding of public finance, referencing the Maastricht criteria, GDP percentages, and the State Budget Act. Furthermore, they are well-versed in international sanctions and legal precedents (US, Canada, EU).
12 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, dramatic, and insistent, stressing the critical state of public finances and violations of parliamentary procedure. It employs sharp metaphors and phrases ("the Brezhnev package," "democracy on tracks," "sadomasochistic support service"). It repeatedly poses specific, answer-demanding questions, accusing opponents of evasion and an inability to respond, while frequently expressing "complete dismay" and "urgent protest."
12 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
A very active and frequent speaker during the plenary session, participating in lengthy and intensive debates with both the representative of the Legal Affairs Committee (Odinets) and the Minister of Finance. The communication pattern is characterized by constantly demanding answers and presenting criticism, especially regarding procedural and fiscal issues.
12 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the governing coalition, the Minister of Finance, and the Riigikogu Board/Legal Committee. The government is criticized for causing the financial crisis and for its managerial incompetence, with the recommendation that the prime minister resign. The Legal Committee is sharply criticized for legal violations and voluntarism in bundling amendment proposals, referring to this as "tanks are not afraid of mud" style democracy.
12 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is predominantly confrontational, focusing on obstructing the government's activities and holding it accountable. Isamaa offers its expertise and support in streamlining state finances, but only on the condition that foolish decisions are abandoned. It demands a cross-party agreement to postpone the abolition of the Reform Party's tax hump until 2028.
12 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national issues (finance, parliamentary procedure) and international topics (sanctions, EU law). It mentions the governance of the city of Kohtla-Järve as a negative example and emphasizes the need to restrict massive Russian business conducted through Estonian and Latvian ports (e.g., manganese ore).
12 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports strict fiscal discipline, demanding cuts in government expenditure (0.5% of GDP) and the adoption of a negative supplementary budget to remain below the 3% budget deficit ceiling. It strongly opposes the "cascade of tax increases" and the abolition of the tax hump, considering these measures destabilizing to the economy and detrimental to the livelihood of lower-income individuals. It demands the imposition of national sanctions against Russian businesses.
12 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available
12 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
It focuses on compliance with the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure Act and the right of parliament members to vote separately on amendments. Key legislative priorities include streamlining state finances (a negative supplementary budget, spending ceilings) and the swift implementation of the law concerning the utilization of Russian oligarchs' assets (the so-called "whistleblowing project").
12 Speeches Analyzed